CA1262407C - Cushioning pad - Google Patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A cushioning pad or mat for protecting the human foot and body while walking or standing is provided. The mat is formed of an upper laminate of material having moisture-absorbant characteristic; an intermediate laminate having an upper and lower surface, the upper surface being bonded to the lower surface of the upper laminate, the intermediate laminate being resilient and permanently deformable over prolonged application of pressure; a lower cushioning pad having a base layer having an upper and lower surface, the upper surface of the base layer being bonded to the lower surface of the intermediate layer; and a plurality of generally spaced-apart longitudinally and transversely extending ribs extending from the lower surface of the base defining a plurality of cells, the ribs having memory to return to the original shape upon removal of deformation forces and being resilient to flex and deform under application of pressure to cushion shock, and the ribs also defining first air passageways placing the cells in communication with one another. The laminate and pad define second air passageways at selected locations whereby air flow is induced through the mat and between the cells as the mat is flexed.